How much can a leatherback turtle weigh?

Leatherback turtles can weigh more than 1,000 pounds, making them the largest sea turtle species in the world.

Can sea turtles retract into their shells?

Unlike land turtles, sea turtles cannot retract their heads and flippers into their shells. Their shells are streamlined for swimming.

Fun Sea Turtle Facts for Kids

Published by Blue Goat Publishing for Kitty Newbold | Last updated: 04/22/2025

Discovering fun sea turtle facts for kids is an exciting way to learn about these amazing ocean creatures! Sea turtles are ancient ocean travelers that have existed for over 100 million years—even when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. For more information about sea turtle conservation, check out this interactive sea turtle education resource.

💡 Did You Know? Baby sea turtles use the light of the moon reflecting on the ocean to find their way to the water after hatching, but artificial lights can confuse them and lead them in the wrong direction!

Amazing Sea Turtle Super Powers

Sea turtles have incredible abilities that make them true ocean superheroes! They can hold their breath underwater for over an hour, navigate thousands of miles using Earth's magnetic field like a built-in GPS, and some species can dive deeper than 3,000 feet. Learn more about marine animal adaptations at National Geographic Kids.

Fun Turtle Trivia That Kids Love

Did you know that leatherback turtles can weigh more than 1,000 pounds? Or that sea turtles can't retract into their shells like land turtles? These fun sea turtle facts for kids are perfect for school projects, bedtime learning, or just for young ocean enthusiasts. Only 1 in 1,000 baby sea turtles survive to adulthood, which makes conservation efforts so important for these amazing creatures.

Sea Turtle Species Around the World

There are seven different species of sea turtles swimming in oceans worldwide, each with unique characteristics and habitats. From the giant leatherback to the smaller Kemp's ridley, these magnificent creatures face many challenges in their ocean homes. According to NOAA Fisheries, all sea turtle species found in U.S. waters are protected under the Endangered Species Act.

A beautiful sea turtle swimming in clear blue ocean water

Sea turtles are graceful swimmers that can travel at speeds up to 22 mph!

Sea Turtle Fast Facts

Super Seniors – Sea turtles can live to be over 100 years old!
Ocean Giants – Leatherback turtles can weigh more than 1,000 pounds.
World Travelers – Sea turtles migrate across entire oceans between feeding and nesting grounds.

Discover The Incredible Turtle Migration

The Incredible Turtle Migration - Sea Turtle Book Cover

Dive into a world of fun sea turtle facts for kids with The Incredible Turtle Migration! This beautifully illustrated children's book follows a brave little turtle named Tilly on her first ocean migration. Along the way, young readers ages 4-8 will learn amazing sea turtle facts while enjoying a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, and ocean conservation. It's the perfect combination of education and entertainment that kids and parents love!

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Dive Deeper: Ocean Education Resources

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FAQs

How long can sea turtles live?

Sea turtles can live to be over 100 years old! They are one of the longest-living reptiles on Earth.

How do baby sea turtles find the ocean?

Baby sea turtles use the light of the moon reflecting on the ocean to guide them to the water after hatching. This is why artificial lights near nesting beaches can confuse them.

What do sea turtles eat?

Different sea turtle species have different diets. Some eat seagrass, algae, and other plants, while others prefer jellyfish, crabs, and other small sea creatures.

How fast can sea turtles swim?

Sea turtles are surprisingly quick swimmers! Some species can reach speeds of up to 22 miles per hour for short bursts.

Ocean Learning Resources

The Enchanted Reef Adventure

A magical story of ocean friends, teamwork, and discovery for kids 4–8.

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The Incredible Turtle Migration

Follow a young turtle on an inspiring journey across the sea.

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Wiley Whale's Big Ocean Adventure

Wiley the young whale learns the power of friendship and ocean wonder.

Buy on Amazon